Business & Tourism (B1/B2, BCC, BBBCV)

Most applicants applying for a non-immigrant visa are temporary visitors coming to the United States for business or pleasure. "B-1" visas are issued to temporary visitors for business and short-term training; "B-2" visas are issued to temporary visitors for pleasure. Most Mexican nationals are issued a combined Border Crossing Card and B-1/B-2 visa either in the form of a card (BCC/Laser Visa) or a foil affixed to their Mexican passport (BBBCV).

The key to understanding this visa category is the temporary nature of the travel. Business people use B visas for negotiating contracts, attending exhibitions and conferences, short-term training, and consultations with suppliers and customers, etc. Tourists use B visas for sightseeing, visiting friends and relatives, obtaining medical treatment, etc. B visas are not valid for employment in the United States.

Applicants for B visas must demonstrate their intention to enter the U.S. for a temporary period, solely for the purpose of tourism and/or short-term business. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel expenses during their stay in the U.S.; as well as sufficient social, economic, and other ties to their home country to compel the applicant to return after a temporary and lawful visit.

Required documentation:

Valid Passport

The DS-160 application form confirmation page

Optional Documentation:

Optional documentation can vary depending on the applicant’s personal situation. The following are mere suggestions that may help the officer to assess your intentions to return to Mexico and is not an exhaustive list of what applicants should present at their interview.

NOTE: These documents
may or may not be reviewed at the time of your interview

Passports containing all previous U.S. visas, previously issued BCCs, even if expired

The above items should not be considered an exhaustive list and presentation of these documents does not guarantee visa issuance. Be prepared to explain to the visa officer and present evidence regarding why you are going to the US and why you will return to Mexico.

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